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12 Hot Springs Worth Traveling For

Before the days of high-tech spa treatments, wellness seekers headed for the hot springs—and modern-day soakers can, too. From an ancient pool near the Dead Sea to the picturesque American West, join us on a world tour of the most stunning spots to take a dip.

The Benefits: Yambajan is home to several types of thermal waters, including geysers and springs ranging from warm to boiling (the water in the main bathing pools is cooled in open-air cisterns before it is deemed safe for soaking). While the springs are high in sulfur and other minerals thought to be therapeutic, most travelers come to soak up the muscle-relaxing heat and peaceful atmosphere. Note that because of the high-altitude, long soaks and vigorous exercise in the hot waters are not recommended and you should drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

How to Soak: The safest place for soaking is in one of the indoor and open-air bathing and swimming pools that have been built along the geothermal field. For the best views, come in the early morning, when the steam rising off the pools seems to melt into the snow-capped mountains in the background. Yambajan is accessible via public bus from Lhasa. tibettravel.info; $5 entrance fee.

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